Eco-tourism trekking in Tibet: A guide to packing reusable everything
Let's take a moment to say this first: Any traveler to Tibet who aims for low-waste or even zero-waste deserves to feel proud and deserves recognition for helping maintain Tibet's unspoiled high-altitude beauty. As the “Leave No Trace” principle grows in popularity, I've written this guide to share practical, easy-to-follow tips specifically for travelers who care deeply about sustainability, so you can keep your eco-friendly goals on track while enjoying your trekking adventure in Tibet.
Water and Food
Choose a reusable insulated water bottle to avoid single-use plastic cups. Opt for a lightweight, durable model that can withstand the rigors of trekking. Stainless steel is a great material as it's durable and can keep drinks cold or hot for extended periods. In remote areas like Ngari, plastic waste is hard to handle. Your small choice can reduce environmental pressure.
A reusable utensil set is essential for eco-friendly trekking. A foldable stainless steel fork and spoon combined with a heat-resistant silicone food container is perfect. They're light and meet trekking requirements. Also, pack reusable sealed bags to sort food waste and wet clothes, cutting down on trash.

Clothing
Don't bring disposable raincoats. Instead, opt for a lightweight waterproof jacket. It can be reused in various outdoor settings, offering better value than single-use rain gear.

Hygiene Products
Consider switching to solid toiletries. Solid shampoo bars and toothpaste tablets are not only eco-friendly but also easy to carry. They usually come in minimal or no packaging, reducing waste. Plus, they are often biodegradable, which is great for the fragile environment. Bamboo fiber towels are a good choice for trekking. They dry quickly and have antibacterial properties, making them a sustainable alternative to disposable paper towels. Moreover, use cotton reusable cleaning cloths that can be washed and reused instead of disposable wet wipes.
Conclusion
Strive to avoid using plastic-based products and instead use reusable items. For instance, bring your own cloth handbags when shopping. Aim for this "zero-waste" goal by taking all trash out of the scenic areas, including fruit peels. Support the local economy by purchasing locally made Tibetan foods, which helps reduce packaging waste. Let's work together to protect Tibet's environment and embrace a more sustainable way of traveling.


35 Comment ON "Eco-tourism trekking in Tibet: A guide to packing reusable everything"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash